Former resident takes home U of M award

DEARBORN – Former Manistique resident Jonathan Larson recently received the “Outstanding Service to the Metropolitan Community and University Award” from University of Michigan-Dearborn. The award recognizes a staff member who extends the university’s mission to the metropolitan Detroit community and makes a significant impact on the quality of the university’s community life.

Larson, coordinator of LGBTQ and inclusion initiatives, connects the university to the metro area, hosting and attending events that stress inclusion and diversity. He works to challenge student leaders to build trust within the community, and engage in volunteer service opportunities on and off campus.

As one nominator said, “Not only is he aware of the impact this campus has on our community, but he is able to facilitate this vision with the students, creating a conglomeration of students who carry out the vision of this university.”

Larson also encourages others to get out and explore the city. His coordination of the university’s Metropolitan Engagement Series connects UM-Dearborn faculty, staff and students to cultural, historical, and recreational sites within Detroit.

Stanley E. Henderson, vice chancellor for enrollment management and student life, presented the award to Larson on behalf of Chancellor Daniel Little at the annual Chancellor’s Staff Recognition Awards held in July.